Flora Patents (Class 428/17)
  • Patent number: 6312774
    Abstract: An article comprising wood can be preserved by applying to the wood an effective amount for the preservation of the wood of a polymeric phenol sulfide having a tri- or higher sulfide bridge therein, which can be a polymeric alkyl phenol sulfide, such as one containing an alkyl group containing from one to about four carbon atoms in the alkyl group contained therein of the following formula, where R is the alkyl group,: where R is alkyl, m is from 1 to 3, n ranges from about 2 to about 10, and x is 3 or higher.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: Akzo Nobel NV
    Inventors: Jagadish C. Goswami, Jian-Lin Liu, Andress K. Doyle
  • Patent number: 6309715
    Abstract: The present invention provides a fragrant article that delivers fragrance over a period of time by an article comprising a polymer matrix, a fragrance and a decorative object. The decorative object is contained within a polymer matrix and in a preferred embodiment is the similar to the fragrance that is being released. The article is particularly well suited to be used as a room freshener, which because of its attractive appearance does not need to be hidden.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2001
    Assignee: International Flavors & Fragrances Inc.
    Inventors: Jerome I. Lindauer, Robert Reid, Lynn Iarossi, Andrea Lynn Meyer
  • Publication number: 20010033902
    Abstract: An artificial turf that includes a first face yarn, a second face yarn, and a stitch-in yarn. The second face yarn is textured in some embodiments, for at least the reason of creating a zone such as a textured zone. A knot is formed by knitting the first face yarn, the second face yarn, and the stitch-in yarn together. A row of knots is also formed in this manner. A backing is formed when a lay-in yarn is extended between at least two rows of the knots and knitted to hold the at least two rows of knots together. A coating is coupled to the backing to prevent, among other things, detachment of the yarns after extended use of the artificial turf. An underlayment is positioned beneath the backing such that a stable base is provided for the artificial turf.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2001
    Publication date: October 25, 2001
    Inventor: Reed J. Seaton
  • Publication number: 20010031322
    Abstract: A self-wrapping decorative article and method for manufacturing is provided. Self-wrapping decorative article includes an elongate generally flat wrapping member having ends capable of coming together and capable of remaining extended is disposed between a first retroreflective decoratively shaped layer and a second layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2001
    Publication date: October 18, 2001
    Inventor: Alexander Sloot
  • Patent number: 6299959
    Abstract: The improved top dressed synthetic turf according to the patent invention provides thatch like fibers to retain top dressing and particularly the rubber or resilient particles in the dressing. The grasslike surface is formed by polyethylene co-polymer slit fibers more than two inches in height tufted through a fiberglass reinforced backing. The thatch zone fibers are dense and texturized so that they will contract to only about one inch in height after curing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2001
    Assignee: Southwest Recreational Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Troy Squires, L. Alan Cole, Raymond Walker
  • Patent number: 6277453
    Abstract: A bale of decorative grass comprising a quantity of strands of decorative grass compressed into a single bale of decorative grass having a weight in a range of 400 to 800 pounds and means for removably securing the strands of decorative grass in the bale.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2001
    Assignee: Southpac Trust International, Inc.
    Inventor: Donald E. Weder
  • Patent number: 6277472
    Abstract: The present invention discloses folded corrugated material for producing segments or strips for use as Easter grass, packing material and the like or for use as flower pot covers, floral wrappings and ribbon materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2001
    Assignees: Southpac Trust International, Inc.
    Inventor: Donald E. Weder
  • Publication number: 20010010844
    Abstract: Two types of synthetic resin are used with zephyrs 2 made from a wide range of bamboo canes from undried to dried. An appropriate amount of special thread 4 comprising a core thread 5 having a high melting point and a core-thread covering skin 6 having a low melting point are added to the zephyrs and kneaded together. When molding the kneaded material, it is heated to the temperature at which the skin starts to melt and pressed. Then the skin works as a binder that binds the zephyrs and the core thread. The core thread supplements the strength and the flexibility of the bamboo zephyr board.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2001
    Publication date: August 2, 2001
    Inventor: Seiji Yoshida
  • Patent number: 6260342
    Abstract: A machine is provided for forming a decorative twisted spiral garland from at least one continuous ribbon web, and a pair of continuous wires. One or more ribbon webs are guided to the outside of a pair of elongated threaded rods which are respectively disposed on opposite sides of and generally parallel to a main axis. The rods form part of a loop frame which is rotated about the main axis to wind the ribbon webs around the rods in a series of continuous loops and draw the webs from supply reels, while the rods are simultaneously rotated about their own axes to advance the ribbon loops along the main axis. A wire supply rotates in synchronism with the loop frame, guiding a pair of wires into paths respectively on opposite sides of the ribbon loops and thence along the main axis between pinch rollers for pulling the wires longitudinally along the axis. The rotation of the wire supply twists the wires and the ribbon loops to form the garland.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2001
    Assignee: Santa's Best
    Inventor: William L. Lehman
  • Publication number: 20010007700
    Abstract: The invention relates to a base layer for a combined synthetic and natural turf comprising a fabric of which at least a part of the weft and/or warp threads is manufactured from a biodegradable material and/or is wholly absent so that the fabric contains apertures, and synthetic turf fibers which are least partially cowoven with the fabric and of which one or both ends form synthetic grass blades. These ends only protrude from the fabric at those locations where the non-degradable warp and weft threads intersect. The base layer is used in combined synthetic and natural turfs comprising a foundation, optionally a first layer of growth substrate and a base layer according to the invention which is provided with a second layer of growth substrate in which grass plants grow. The invention further relates to a method for laying a combined turf using the base layer of the invention.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2001
    Publication date: July 12, 2001
    Inventor: Hugo de Vries
  • Patent number: 6247267
    Abstract: A stabilized turf (10) particularly suitable for athletic fields includes a mat (18) interposed between upper (24) and lower (16) layers of growth media, the mat (18) having a horizontally disposed, biodegradable primary backing (22) and generally upwardly extending fibers (20) secured thereto, wherein the fibers (20) extend above the upper layer (24) of growth media. Natural grass plants (26) extend upwardly above the upper layer (24), with the roots extending down through the backing (22) and into the lower layer (16). The mat (18) stabilizes root growth, particularly during initial grow in. The biodegradability of the primary backing (22) results in a loss of all or most of its horizontal structural integrity within a predetermined time period. The primary backing (22) may be treated with a decomposition agent to control the predetermined time period for decomposition, a stabilizing agent to assist in holding the upright fibers (20) or a growth agent for the natural turf grass.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2001
    Assignee: Technology Licensing Corp
    Inventors: Joseph E. Motz, Mark A. Heinlein, Steve Linville
  • Patent number: 6242062
    Abstract: The invention relates to a base layer for a combined synthetic and natural turf comprising a fabric of which at least a part of the weft and/or warp threads is manufactured from a biodegradable material and/or is wholly absent so that the fabric contains apertures, and synthetic turf fibers which are least partially cowoven with the fabric and of which one or both ends form synthetic grass blades. These ends only protrude from the fabric at those locations where the non-degradable warp and weft threads intersect. The base layer is used in combined synthetic and natural turfs comprising a foundation, optionally a first layer of growth substrate and a base layer according to the invention which is provided with a second layer of growth substrate in which grass plants grow. The invention further relates to a method for laying a combined turf using the base layer of the invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2001
    Assignee: Southwest Recreational Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Hugo de Vries
  • Patent number: 6231935
    Abstract: A first functional man-made ornamental plant comprises a foliage-floral part L of a man-made ornamental plant having a thin layer AB of a composition comprising an inorganic particulate substance having photocatalyst activity (a) and a binder which is inorganic or has been made inorganic (b) preferably on top of an under-coat layer B of the binder which is inorganic or has been made inorganic (b). A second functional man-made ornamental plant is characterized in that the foliage-floral part L of a man-made ornamental plant is molded from a composition comprising a matrix resin and, as incorporated therein, an inorganic particulate substance having photocatalyst activity (a). Preferably, the surface of the molded foliage-floral part L is delicately roughened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2001
    Assignee: Yugen Kaishi Fukuji Corporation
    Inventor: Toshikazu Fukunaga
  • Patent number: 6226949
    Abstract: A novel roofing material simulating natural thatch and methods of applying the roofing material comprises the provision of simulated thatch shingles or rolls of such material. The shingles or rolls are formed of elongate reeds or thatch elements formed of a polymer material and arranged in laterally extending bundles. The thatch elements are folded and secured to a binder and are secured to an appropriate substrate which is secured to the roof. Each shingle or roll extends in overlying relation to produce a shingled arrangement which simulates a natural thatched roof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Inventor: Barry Ray Huber
  • Publication number: 20010000735
    Abstract: A method for making decorative grass having a three-dimensional pattern which constitutes at least a portion of the decor of the decorative grass. Printed designs or materials and/or embossed materials can also constitute a portion of the decor of the decorative grass. The method includes slitting a material having a three-dimensional pattern on at least a portion of at least one surface thereof and then cutting the slit material into segments of a predetermined length to provide the decorative grass having a three-dimensional pattern.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 3, 2001
    Publication date: May 3, 2001
    Inventor: Donald E. Weder
  • Publication number: 20010000479
    Abstract: A bale of decorative grass comprising a quantity of strands of decorative grass compressed into a single bale of decorative grass having a weight in a range of 400 to 800 pounds and means for removably securing the strands of decorative grass in the bale.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2000
    Publication date: April 26, 2001
    Inventor: Donald E. Weder
  • Patent number: 6220441
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for preserving the color, texture and visual effect of sports related items enclosed within transparent material for purposes of ornamental display. In the preferred embodiment, the sports related item is preserved by vacuum sealing or freeze-drying and encased in transparent resin. The preserved sports item may be displayed alone or in combination with photographs, descriptions, other memorabilia and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2001
    Inventor: Dominick R. Cook
  • Patent number: 6221445
    Abstract: An artificial turf is disclosed which comprises an outer artificial grass layer having a generally uniform exterior playing surface. A deflection layer is disposed below the artificial grass layer. The deflection layer has a prescribed height to provide resiliency for absorbing impact shocks from foot traffic and playing on the artificial grass layer. The deflection layer has a plurality of interstices providing open passages for water drainage; and loose particles are dispersed into the interstices of the deflection layer up to a prescribed level to provide stability and enhance shock absorption so that the deflection layer deflects when the artificial grass is impacted to assist in absorbing the impact and maintain normal playing action of the playing surface of the artificial grass layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2001
    Assignee: U.S. Greentech, Inc.
    Inventor: James Martin Jones
  • Patent number: 6217957
    Abstract: A decorative receptacle for retaining at least one decorative bobby pin. The decorative bobby pin has opposed first and second ends wherein a decorative element is disposed on the first end thereof. The receptacle further includes a container with an open end in communication with an interior chamber. Disposed within the interior chamber is a quantity of retention material, such as moss. The retention material is adapted to maintain the bobby pin in a substantially vertical orientation upon the advancement of the second end thereinto. Additionally, the retention material maintains the first end of the bobby pin and the decorative element disposed thereon above the open end of the container. Typically, the decorative element attached to the bobby pin is a silk flower and the container is a terra cotta pot. Therefore, when multiple bobby pins are inserted into the pot, a simulated pot or bouquet of flowers is created.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2001
    Inventor: Gesse Ann Barnett
  • Patent number: 6216389
    Abstract: A stabilized natural turf surface particularly suitable for athletic fields includes a mat interposed between upper and lower layers of growth media, the mat having a woven biodegradable backing and upwardly extending artificial fibers secured thereto, wherein the fibers extend well above the top of the upper layer. Natural grass plants grow in the upper layer, with the crowns being located in the upper layer of growth media and the roots extending down through the backing and into the lower layer. The mat helps to stabilize root growth, particularly during the first few years. The biodegradability of the backing results in its eventual decomposition, so that after a predetermined time the turf surface may be aerated all the way down to the lower layer without adversely affecting the mat and the mat can be top dressed beginning immediately after turf growth occurs. The biodegradability also prevents the creation of an agronomic barrier between the upper and lower layers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2001
    Assignee: Technology Licensing Corp.
    Inventors: Joseph E. Motz, Mark A. Heinlein
  • Patent number: 6199912
    Abstract: A simple foldable greeting card wherein, upon opening, decorative display elements self-generate a 3-D effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2001
    Inventor: Yan Finkelshteyn
  • Patent number: 6173528
    Abstract: A stabilized natural turf surface particularly suitable for athletic fields includes a mat interposed between upper and lower layers of growth media, the mat having a woven biodegradable backing and upwardly extending artificial fibers secured thereto, wherein the fibers extend well above the top of the upper layer. Natural grass plants grow in the upper layer, with the crowns being located in the upper layer of growth media and the roots extending down through the backing and into the lower layer. The mat helps to stabilize root growth, particularly during the first few years. The biodegradability of the backing results in its eventual decomposition, so that after a predetermined time the turf surface may be aerated all the way down to the lower layer without adversely affecting the mat and the mat can be top dressed beginning immediately after turf growth occurs. The biodegradability also prevents the creation of an agronomic barrier between the upper and lower layers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2001
    Assignee: Technology Licensing Corp
    Inventors: Joseph E. Motz, Mark A. Heinlein
  • Patent number: 6174574
    Abstract: A semi-finished wood simulating product and method is disclosed. The product is manufactured by providing a substrate having at least one surface to be finished. A liquid basecoat is applied on the substrate and dried. A wood grain pattern is deposited, in liquid form, on the basecoat. Some of the pattern is transferred from the originally deposited position on the basecoat to a subsequent position. The pattern is then cured. A polymerizable protective coating is applied onto the substrate overlying the basecoat and the pattern. The protective coating seals the substrate and is adapted for accepting a colorant to be applied by an end user. The protective coating is then polymerized. Additionally, if a porous substrate is provided, a sealer is applied prior to the liquid basecoat and is then cured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2001
    Assignee: Premdor, Inc.
    Inventor: Ralph A. Martino
  • Patent number: 6156396
    Abstract: A golf practice mat includes a relatively thick base pad formed of a resilient elastomeric material, e.g. foam rubber, and an artificial grass carpet slidably positioned on the base pad. An elastic biasing mechanism is provided for positioning the carpet on the pad. When a golf ball on the carpet surface is forcibly struck, the carpet can slide a limited distance to absorb the club force, so as to lessen the reaction force onto the golfer's hands and arms. The elastic biasing mechanism then returns the carpet to its original position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2000
    Inventor: Raymond Florian
  • Patent number: 6138479
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of making a rectangular bar have a gradient composition. In optical or ophthalmic applications, the gradient of composition ensures formation of a corresponding gradient of optical property, such as refractive index or optical density. The glass material is manufactured using a device containing several reservoirs, all designed to contain glass in the fluid state. According to the invention, the composition of the glass varies from one reservoir to the other so that the refractive indices, for example, of the three compositions are different, with an incremental progression. The fluid glass is deposited one composition on top of the next and then heated, creating a certain degree of interdiffusion between the layers. The glass is then heat-treated to create the desired property profile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2000
    Assignee: Corning Incorporated
    Inventors: Claude F. M. Gille, Alain Kerdoncuff, Michel Prassas
  • Patent number: 6127007
    Abstract: A camouflage covering having a porous underlayer such as a knit mesh of 90% open area, and a plurality of dangling elements each having a base portion that is joined to and extends essentially transversely out from the porous underlayer. The dangling elements are arranged so as to essentially cover the porous underlayer so as to present a covering that has depth and provides a loft effect. The dangling elements are preferably strips having a low emissivity (0.02-0.50) inner layer and an external coating, which is thermally transparent but supports pigments that provide a visual and near infrared radiation signature suppression effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2000
    Assignee: Teledyne Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Philip R. Cox, Jerry C. Edwards, Jody S. Loyd, Larry Watkins
  • Patent number: 6127022
    Abstract: A camouflage surface for concealment from, and deception of, a herbivorous animal comprises a camouflage pattern made up of at least two different types of regions which reflect electromagnetic radiation in the near-infra-red range of the electromagnetic spectrum. All the regions of each type reflect the near-infra-red radiation in the same fashion as one another and in a fashion different from the fashion in which the regions of each other type reflect the radiation. The different types of regions all have, in the near-infra-red range, spectral reflectance curves having reflectance maxima at wavelengths of at least 680 nm. Each spectral reflectance curve which the surface has in the visible light range of the electromagnetic spectrum is without a reflectance maximum in the wavelength range between 480 and 680 nm and each spectral reflectance curve which the surface has in the visible light range has a reflectance maximum at a wavelength of at most 480 nm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2000
    Assignee: Finstruct (Proprietary) Limited
    Inventor: Zagarias Hendrik Johannes Pretorius
  • Patent number: 6124028
    Abstract: A method of carbonizing cellulose-containing plants is disclosed. Wood is used as a precursor material which is carbonized under controlled temperature and atmosphere conditions to produce a porous carbon product having substantially the same cellular structure as the precursor wood. The porous carbonized wood may be used for various applications such as filters, or may be further processed to form carbon-polymer or carbon--carbon composites. The carbonized wood may also be converted to a ceramic such as silicon carbide. Additional processing may be used to form ceramic-metal or ceramic--ceramic composites.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2000
    Inventors: Dennis C. Nagle, Christopher E. Byrne
  • Patent number: 6099921
    Abstract: A formable decoration including an elongate formable member, decorative greenery, and attachment apparatus. The attachment apparatus attaches the decorative greenery to the formable member. The formable decoration may be formed into a decorative shape such as a straight line, an arch, a candy cane, and a wreath. The formable decoration may then be reformed into multiple decorative shapes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Assignee: Martin Schmidt & Sons LLC
    Inventors: Martin Schmidt, Lillian Nancy Schmidt, Steven Schmidt, Karl Schmidt
  • Patent number: 6094860
    Abstract: A stabilized turf (10) particularly suitable for athletic fields includes a mat (18) interposed between upper (24) and lower (16) layers of growth media, the mat (18) having a horizontally disposed, biodegradable primary backing (22) and generally upwardly extending fibers (20) secured thereto, wherein the fibers (20) extend above the upper layer (24) of growth media. Natural grass plants (26) extend upwardly above the upper layer (24), with the roots extending down through the backing (22) and into the lower layer (16). The mat (18) stabilizes root growth, particularly during initial grow in. The biodegradability of the primary backing (22) results in a loss of all or most of its horizontal structural integrity within a predetermined time period. The primary backing (22) may be treated with a decomposition agent to control the predetermined time period for decomposition, a stabilizing agent to assist in holding the upright fibers (20) or a growth agent for the natural turf grass.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2000
    Assignee: Technology Licensing Corp.
    Inventors: Joseph E. Motz, Mark A. Heinlein, Steve Linville
  • Patent number: 6080453
    Abstract: A cover for a flower pot, the cover comprising a sheet of material sized to substantially surround and encompass the outer peripheral surface of the flower pot and a fastener comprised of elastic or elasticized materials and forming a generally continuous loop, the fastener connectingly held to either the upper surface or the lower surface of the sheet of material. The fastener can be stretched to an extent sufficient to enable the fastener to be disposed about the outer peripheral surface of the flower pot and to hold the sheet of material applied thereabout. The invention further comprises a method for wrapping a pot with a covering such as described above, and a preformed pot cover having a fastener connected circumferentially to the interior surface of the pot cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2000
    Assignee: Southpac Trust International, Inc.
    Inventors: Donald E. Weder, Joseph G. Straeter, William F. Straeter
  • Patent number: 6071574
    Abstract: The present invention discloses folded corrugated material for producing segments or strips for use as Easter grass, packing material and the like or for use as flower pot covers, floral wrappings and ribbon materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2000
    Assignee: Southpac Trust International, Inc.
    Inventor: Donald E. Weder
  • Patent number: 6068894
    Abstract: A eucalyptus floral product and a method for producing the same is provided. The floral product is non-perishable and permanent, while appearing to be naturally grown as opposed to artificially manufactured. The eucalyptus leaf floral product comprises a plurality of eucalyptus leaves attached to a central stem to substantially resemble a corolla. Additionally, the corolla preferably resembles a rosette. The central stem is preferably a length of wire, and the eucalyptus leaves are preferably preserved eucalyptus leaves. The corolla includes an underside, and a plurality of smaller eucalyptus leaves attached to the underside of the corolla form to substantially resemble a calyx. Additionally, the leaves can be soaked in a mildly acidic solution, such as vinegar, before the leaves are formed into the floral product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2000
    Inventors: Melaine Morford, Bruce Morford
  • Patent number: 6058648
    Abstract: A new artificial flower bloom insert for inserting into a stem of a live plant to simulate a bloom of the plant. The inventive device includes a bloom portion formed to resemble a flower bloom and an elongate tubular stem portion coupled to the flower bloom at one end of the stem portion. The other end of the stem portion is adapted for insertion into a stem of a plant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2000
    Inventor: James Kevin Kingston
  • Patent number: 6048592
    Abstract: A synthetic top covering replicating a decorative moss used for dressing the top of potted plants and the like. The synthetic decorative moss is composed of a non-woven bundle of individual strands of kinked material which are gathered in a rope-fashion. One end of the bundle is secured to maintain the strands of the bundle together. The strands are colored to replicate moss, and have varying lengths. One or more of the bundles can be formed as a top dressing for a potted plant and the like by draping them in a mat on the plant, with any free ends tucked beneath the mat to hide the gathered ends of the bundles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2000
    Inventor: David E. Rolf
  • Patent number: 6048282
    Abstract: A method of visually marking a line in a natural grass turf playing surface by embedding a synthetic grass strip within the natural turf of football fields and the like. The synthetic strip has a middle band of light colored synthetic grass to mark the line and outer bands of green colored synthetic grass which blend in with the adjacent natural grass. Installation commences with cutting a shallow trench in the turf surface. The synthetic grass turf marking strip is laid into the trench and resilient granular ballast is deposited on the strip backing between upstanding grass-like tufted ribbons. The natural grass adjacent the outer green synthetic ribbons gradually grows into and blends with the outer edges of the outer synthetic green ribbon bands. The outer green colored bands inhibit the lateral spread of natural grass over the light colored middle band.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2000
    Inventors: Jean Prevost, Jacques J Prevost
  • Patent number: 6042912
    Abstract: A decorative window dressing that includes a border cut-out design sheet having the design cut-out for permitting light to pass through, a colored middle layer and a backing sheet. The colored layer is placed between the border cut-out and the backing sheet, where the border sheet and colored middle layer are secured to the backing sheet and positioned within a window frame such that the incoming light is in the shape of the cut-out design. The window dressing may be attached to spring loaded roller hung within a window pane or to a hanging bar for rotation along its vertical axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2000
    Inventor: Helen Simoni
  • Patent number: 6035577
    Abstract: A temporarily stabilized natural turf conforms to a foundation of uniform or nonuniform topography, for instance a golf course green, and includes a flexible biodegradable primary backing with biodegradable fibers tufted thereto, an upper sand-based fill layer extending above the primary to about the tops of the fibers, and natural grass plants supported within the fill layer. The natural grass plants have blades which extend above the fill layer and the fibers to form a natural grass playing surface. The crowns of the natural grass plants reside just beneath the fill layer. The roots of the natural grass plants extend downwardly through the fill layer and through the root permeable and water permeable primary backing. The stabilized turf is grown at a sod farm and transplanted to the use site, and the primary backing helps to carry the sand-based fill layer. Once installed, the roots grow into the foundation relatively quickly, reducing the time needed to achieve a durable natural turf.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2000
    Assignee: Technology Licensing Corp
    Inventors: Joseph E. Motz, Mark A. Heinlein, Steve Linville
  • Patent number: 6033769
    Abstract: The invention relates to layered bodies for absorbing water and aqueous liquids, consisting of at least one water-soluble polymer foam layer and particulate superabsorbent polymerizates, which contain the superabsorber on top of, between or underneath the foamed polymer layer in a quantitatively and/or locally predetermined and fixed sheet-like arrangement at a quantity ratio of polymer foam and superabsorber of from 1:500 to 50:1. The polymer foam may contain fillers, pigments and/or synthetic fibers. The layered bodies have increased absorptive capacity for water and aqueous liquids, particularly under load. They are produced by spreading the foam in a sheet-like fashion, applying the superabsorber at the predetermined quantity ratio, optionally using a template, and fixing it by a heat treatment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2000
    Assignee: Stockhausen GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Helmut Brueggemann, Kurt Dahmen, Dieter Lehwald, Roland Theilmann
  • Patent number: 6029397
    Abstract: A stabilized natural turf surface particularly suitable for athletic fields includes a mat interposed between upper and lower layers of growth media, the mat having a woven biodegradable backing and upwardly extending artificial fibers secured thereto, wherein the fibers extend well above the top of the upper layer. Natural grass plants grow in the upper layer, with the crowns being located in the upper layer of growth media and the roots extending down through the backing and into the lower layer. The mat helps to stabilize root growth, particularly during the first few years. The biodegradability of the backing results in its eventual decomposition, so that after a predetermined time the turf surface may be aerated all the way down to the lower layer without adversely affecting the mat and the mat can be top dressed beginning immediately after turf growth occurs. The biodegradability also prevents the creation of an agronomic barrier between the upper and lower layers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Assignee: Technology Licensing Corp.
    Inventors: Joseph E. Motz, Mark A. Heinlein
  • Patent number: 5989656
    Abstract: A container cover with foliage (10) functioning to aesthetically cover a container (18). The container cover with foliage (10) has a net cover (12) which comprises a left net cover (12L) attached along a front distal edge to a left distal edge of a front net cover (12F) which is attached along a right distal edge to a front distal edge of a right net cover (12R) which is attached along a rear distal edge to a right distal edge of a back net cover (12B) which is attached along a left distal edge to a rear distal edge of the left net cover (12L). A net cover top (12T) is attached along a left edge and a right edge and a front edge and a back edge to a top edge of the left net cover (12L) and the right net cover (12R) and the front net cover (12F) and the back net cover (12B), respectively. A bottom net cover (12A) is located circumferentially along a bottom edge of the net cover (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Inventor: Michael Soloman
  • Patent number: 5985381
    Abstract: Methods and articles so produced for increasing the camouflaging effect of any camouflaging pattern, the invention relates to the coating of at least portions of a camouflaging pattern disposed on an article with a material capable of assuming different chromic states at different ambient light levels. Materials employed to produce color changes in the camouflaging pattern include light and/or heat sensitive dyes and/or inks and particularly photochromic materials capable of reversible color changes. At least portions of camouflaging patterns modified according to the invention change color, such as from a color in the original camouflaging pattern to a different color or from a first shade of a given color to a second shade of that same color, on exposure to sunlight either of a more direct nature or a greater intensity, the color change being reversed in whole or in part by a return of ambient light conditions toward or to a given set of original light conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Inventor: Kyle Henry Conner
  • Patent number: 5985063
    Abstract: A plant material is preserved by immersing a cross sectional surface of a severed stem, stalk, trunk or vine of a plant material into a preservative solution. The preservative solution can include a suitable dye. The plant material remains intertwined with its trellis, lattice or similar support during a preservation process. Alternatively, the plant material remains in a natural configuration during the preservation process. Also alternatively, the plant material also remains in a natural orientation during the preservation process. The cut stem, stalk, trunk or vine can be immersed in a container of preservative solution, at or near the time the stem, stalk, trunk or vine is severed. The cut stem stalk, trunk or vine of the plant can also be tied to a container of preservative solution. A rain shroud can also be placed over the container of preservative solution that contains the severed stem, stalk, trunk or vine of the severed plant, to protect the preservative solution during the preservation process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Inventors: Bruce Morford, Melaine Morford
  • Patent number: 5976645
    Abstract: Vertically draining synthetic turf having reduced abrasiveness and increased resilience compared to conventional synthetic turfs. The vertical draining system of the present invention prevents water from accumulating on the turf surface, which could cause the top-dressing layer to "float" and be moved by inundation. The draining system of the present invention incorporates a porous geotextile membrane between an open graded aggregate layer and a sand layer above the aggregate layer to prevent the movement of one aggregate layer into the other. The top-dressing layer consists of resilient particles, preferably a mixture of high and low density rubber. The pile fabric preferably includes an isotropic non-woven backing to add dimensional stability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1999
    Assignee: Safturf International Limited
    Inventors: Daniel A. Daluise, Paul R. Lioi
  • Patent number: 5976644
    Abstract: A process to treat bamboo comprises splitting a bamboo shoot lengthwise into at least two separate bamboo lengths, and removing any internal membranes and external nodes from the bamboo lengths. The split bamboo lengths are treated to remove substantially all sugars present in said lengths, following which they are dried to a moisture content of less than about 3%. The bamboo lengths are then rehumidified to a predetermined moisture content of greater than about 3%. Then, optionally, a first plurality of the bamboo lengths suitable to form a core for a laminated bamboo article may be uniformly sized, and a second plurality of the bamboo lengths suitable to form an outer surface for a laminated bamboo article may be uniformly sized. A core may then be formed with a uniform first plurality of the lengths by laminating the first plurality of lengths together, and at least one outer surface layer may be formed with a uniform second plurality of the lengths by laminating the second plurality of lengths together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1999
    Assignee: Amati Bambu Ltd.
    Inventors: Baha-al Dean Sanaee, Babak Kashef
  • Patent number: 5976643
    Abstract: The invention uses a garnish of tufts of filaments or strips attached to camouflage material, particularly camouflage material for use on mobile equipment, vehicles and personnel. The garnish or tuft is formed from a sheet of flexible, low emissivity material that has been cut into filaments or strips adhesively attached along one uncut longitudinal strip edge portion of the sheet. The tuft is formed by rolling the strip edge portion longitudinally around one part of a tuft retaining anchor, to form a rolled, adhesive-bound segment attached to the tuft part. When the rolled strips or filaments are so bound about the tuft retaining anchor part, a tuft is formed therefrom. When all the tuft retaining anchor parts are assembled, the tuft retaining anchor and tuft together constitute the garnish. A plurality of garnishes is attached to a base camouflage material on, e.g., mobile equipment, vehicles and personnel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1999
    Assignee: Marconi Aerospace Defense Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Bradley Sallee
  • Patent number: 5961389
    Abstract: A recreational and sport surface which contains a particulate composition containing an intimate mixture of sand, polyolefin fibers, polyolefin particles, tire fibers and a coating of wax on the ingredients of the composition. The surface is preferably placed over a crushed aggregate layer which provides drainage to an area and may also contain a separator layer to prevent the passage of particulate material from the composition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 5, 1999
    Inventor: Michael W. Dickinson
  • Patent number: 5958526
    Abstract: An adhesive camouflage patch is described in which a flexible base sheet is provided with a perimeter defining an irregular configuration. First and second adhesive surfaces are provided on opposed inside and outside surfaces of the base sheet, covered with removable first and second backing sheets. The second adhesive surface may be of a color selected to be visually non-contrasting with an environmental setting of a surface to be camouflaged. The first backing sheet is removable from the first adhesive surface to enable the first adhesive surface to be applied to the surface to be camouflaged. The second removable backing sheet may be removed to expose the second adhesive surface for adhesive attachment of environmental materials selected from the environmental setting of the surface to be camouflaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1999
    Inventor: James Spickelmire
  • Patent number: 5958527
    Abstract: The invention relates to a synthetic grass turf assembly for installation on a supporting soil substrate to provide a game playing surface that combines the feel of natural turf with the wear resistance of synthetic turf. The turf assembly includes a pile fabric with a flexible sheet backing and rows of upstanding synthetic ribbons representing grass blades, extending upwardly from an upper surface of the backing. A unique infill layer of multiple distinct graded courses of particulate material is disposed interstitially between the upstanding ribbons upon the upper surface of the backing and of a depth less than the length of the ribbons. A base course is first placed upon the top surface of the backing and consists exclusively of hard sand granules. A middle course of intermixed hard sand and resilient rubber granules with relative weight ratio of 3 to 1 is then placed upon the base course. A top course exclusively of resilient rubber granules is then placed upon the middle course.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1999
    Assignee: Fieldturf Holdings, Inc.
    Inventor: Jean Prevost
  • Patent number: 5925424
    Abstract: An article comprising wood can be preserved by applying to the wood an effective amount for the preservation of the wood of a preservative composition consisting essentially of a polymeric phenol sulfide having a tetra- or higher sulfide bridge therein alkyl phenol sulfide, such as one containing an alkyl group containing from one to about four carbon atoms in the alkyl group contained therein of the following formula, where R is the alkyl group,: ##STR1## where R is alkyl, m is from 1 to 3, n ranges from about 2 to about 10, and x is about 4.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 20, 1999
    Assignee: Akzo Nobel N.V.
    Inventors: Jagadish C. Goswami, Jian-Lin Liu, Andress K. Doyle